For many people in North Vernon, it’s a sad sight to see the history dating back to the 1850’s, about to go. But city leaders said good things are coming.

"It was a tragedy, I felt bad for everybody here. It brought tears to me,” said Suzy McDowell, North Vernon resident.

McDowell felt the devastation when the inferno consumed several historical buildings last November. Its aftermath is still affecting the city.

"Well as far as the arson structure, those are all going to go, torn down and hauled away,” said Chris Ertel, with the redevelopment commission.

While some of the historic structures will be saved, most on the 5th Street corridor are destroyed.

"When you have a fire of this intensity, it changes the makeup of the metal. That's not coming from me. It's coming from engineers,” said Ertel.

The fire burned so hot, that the metal framing cannot be restored, but thanks to a Stellar grant provided to the city, a new beginning is being sparked.

“In our attempts to use the Stellar funding and our matches to go with it, we tried to pick out an area to try and enhance the downtown and do those kinds of things, infrastructure wise, that can re-create excitement,” said Ertel.

The lot across from the arson area is being restructured into a park with green space, new sidewalks, street lamps and sitting areas; also an area that will honor the railroad history that runs through the downtown.

"We hope, talking to the developer, and through tax credits, to encourage, possibly, senior housing, something that would be a good fit where we find a need,” said Ertel.

North Vernon has a waiting list for seniors needing senior living.

McDowell feels it’s a great idea, giving seniors a new venue to enjoy a new downtown.

"Sit at the water park, go to the restaurant and have a piece of pie, listen to the train go by!” said McDowell.

Ertel said as with anything of worth, it takes time, money and patience. But residents said they’re willing to wait if it means good things for North Vernon.

The investigation into the arson that caused all the destruction continues, but there have been no arrests.